House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Christmastide Services

Thursday 26 November 2020 · 2 questions

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 0 Partly answered 2 Not answered 0

Key points

Michael Fabricant inquired about discussions between Church Commissioners and the Association of English Cathedrals concerning Christmastide services.
Lichfield cathedral received 140,000 from the national lottery heritage emergency fund.
Discussions are ongoing with the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport and the Treasury regarding the Government's Taylor review for church and cathedral sustainability.

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Questions & Answers

Q1 Michael Fabricant Con

Religion & Faith

Context

The question arises from discussions on the provision of services in English cathedrals, particularly Lichfield cathedral which is facing challenges due to structural concerns and funding issues.

Question

What discussions have taken place between the commissioners and the chairman of the Association of English Cathedrals regarding services during Christmastide; and if he will make a statement.

Answer from Andrew Selous

The Church Commissioners have regular discussions with the Association of English Cathedrals, and Lichfield cathedral will be having an illuminations show and holding as many services as possible. The cathedral has received £140,000 from the national lottery heritage emergency fund.

Partly answered

Not addressed: The specific ask for additional support to ensure cathedrals remain open and responsive was not directly addressed with a commitment or timeline.

How: Passing On The Question

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Q2 Michael Fabricant Con

Culture, Media & Sport

Context

The dean of Lichfield cathedral is seeking additional support from the government to ensure that the cathedral remains open and responsive to public need during a critical period.

Question

What additional support can be given to cathedrals in the first quarter of 2021 to ensure they remain open and responsive to public need?

Answer from Andrew Selous

Lichfield cathedral has received £140,000 from the national lottery heritage emergency fund. Conversations are ongoing with the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport and the Treasury about the Government's own Taylor review of church and cathedral building sustainability.